Memorial services for 68-year old Les “Butch” Ouderkirk of Chadron, NE, are Tuesday, June 7, 2022 at 2:00 PM at the Congregational Church in Chadron.
Les was born June 3, 1953, in Scottsbluff, NE, and passed away on May 25, 2022, in Fort Garland, CO.
A memorial has been established for the Chadron Volunteer Fire Department and donations may be sent in care of Chamberlain Chapel, PO Box 970, Chadron, NE 69337.
Online condolences may be left at www.chamberlainchapel.com
Leslie William “Butch” Ouderkirk was born June 5, 1953, in Scottsbluff, NE, and passed away unexpectedly May 25, 2022 in Fort Garland, Colorado while on vacation.
The second child of Leslie “Bud” Ouderkirk and Alice Mae (Houser) Ouderkirk, Les grew up on his parents’ farm northwest of Morill, NE, until they moved into the town of Morrill in 1964. He obtained the nickname “Butch” from his family at a very young age and it stuck throughout his life.
He attended Morrill public schools, graduating from high school in 1971. Les went on to Chadron State College, receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in biology in 1976.
Les served in the United States Navy from 1977-1983. After completing his service, he obtained his certification as a Medical Technologist and began his 35-year career in that field, retiring in May 2019.
On September 25, 2004, Les was united in marriage to the love of his life, Kimberly Dawn Bibbey, in Chadron, Nebraska. The couple met in 2003 and shared many happy years together.
Les was a long-time member of the Chadron Volunteer Fire Department and was a Senior Active Member at the time of his death. He also served for a time on the Chadron City Council.
He enjoyed helping people, especially his neighbors, spending time with family and friends, and his many hunting trips.
Les is survived by his wife, Kimberly, four siblings: Sharon (Jesse) Sotvick of Shoshone, Wyoming, Nila (Dan) Clifton of Casper, Wyoming, James Dean Ouderkirk of Springdale, Arkansas, and Scot (Lisa) Ouderkirk of Bayard, Nebraska. Also surviving him are his in-laws, two aunts, three uncles, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Preceding Les in death were his parents, grandparents, numerous aunts and uncles, and a nephew.
Chamberlain Chapel of Chadron is in charge of arrangements for Les “Butch” Ouderkirk
Les was a great man. He will be sorely missed!